Introduction
Mexico's extraordinary biodiversity and cultural heritage are its greatest assets, but tourism pressure threatens many of them. From cenote pollution to reef damage to overtourism in colonial cities, the challenges are real. Here is how to travel more responsibly and help protect what makes Mexico special.
Protect the Water
Cenotes and Reefs
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen -- Chemical sunscreens damage cenote ecosystems and coral reefs. Look for products free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Shower before entering cenotes -- Required at most, but do it even when not enforced
- Do not touch coral -- When snorkeling or diving in Cozumel or along the Riviera Maya
- Respect stromatolites -- At Bacalar Lagoon, never touch or stand on these ancient living formations
Reduce Plastic
- Bring a reusable water bottle and refill at purified water stations (garrafones, available at most hotels)
- Decline plastic straws and bags
- Many eco-conscious businesses in Tulum, Sayulita, and Holbox have gone plastic-free
Support Local Communities
- Buy directly from artisans -- In Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Puebla, purchase crafts directly from makers rather than intermediaries
- Eat local -- Choose locally owned restaurants over international chains. Street food and market meals directly support local families.
- Use local guides -- Licensed local guides keep tourism dollars in the community and provide authentic perspectives
- Stay in locally owned accommodation -- Boutique hotels and guesthouses owned by locals rather than international chains
Responsible Wildlife Encounters
- Choose certified operators for whale watching, whale shark encounters, and sea turtle viewing
- Do not feed wildlife -- At any site, marine or terrestrial
- Keep your distance -- From sea lions in Cabo, iguanas at ruins, and monkeys at Palenque
- Avoid animal entertainment -- Decline offers to pose with captive parrots, monkeys, or other animals at tourist sites
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
- Take buses -- Mexico's bus network is well-developed and far lower-carbon than domestic flights
- Walk and bike -- Most colonial cities and beach towns are walkable
- Choose direct flights -- When flying, direct routes reduce emissions
- Stay longer in fewer places -- Rather than rushing between destinations, spend more time in each place
Choose Eco-Conscious Accommodation
Look for:
- Hotels with water conservation practices (many in Baja and the Yucatan)
- Properties that use solar power
- Eco-lodges that incorporate local materials and hire local staff
- Certifications from bodies like Rainforest Alliance or EarthCheck
The Big Picture
The most sustainable thing you can do as a tourist is contribute positively to local economies while minimizing environmental impact. Spend money at local businesses, respect natural and cultural sites, and leave places as you found them -- or better.
